How to Diagnose OCD in Children

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder where people have certain thoughts that they cannot get out of their mind. These thoughts often compel the OCD sufferer to engage in rituals or compulsions. These rituals are a misguided way to either stop the thoughts or to deter perceived bad events. In addition, the OCD sufferer has an overwhelming need to control her environment. The most common age for children to exhibit symptoms is around 10 years of age. Boys usually develop OCD before puberty, while girls develop it after. OCD is present when obsessive thoughts and rituals interfere with daily life.

Instructions

Signs to Look For

• 1

  Notice if the child's hands are raw or red. A fear of dirt and germs is common, so the OCD child will wash his hands constantly. A child with a fear of germs may also bathe or shower very frequently. You may notice that unusually large amounts of soap and paper towels are gone.

• 2

  Assess if schoolwork and grades are suffering. Because of the intrusive thoughts, many children have a hard time concentrating on their schoolwork. Or, their rituals may be so time-consuming, there is not enough time left to do any homework.

• 3

  Notice if you repeatedly answer the same question. Children will often drag their parents into the rituals to try to control them. If the parent does not go along with the ritual, the child may have a tantrum.

• 4

  Time how long it takes your child to get ready for bed. All sorts of rituals could make this process quite a long one. The child could be compulsively washing, counting things or checking things before he can go to bed.

• 5

  Notice if your child wants to lock herself in her room or bathroom for long periods. The child is likely acting out a ritual behind locked doors.

• 6

  Notice if your child has to check things before leaving the house. Your child's compulsions may manifest themselves in the form of checking rituals, such as making sure the door is locked or that an appliance is turned off. The compulsion to repeatedly check the door or appliance becomes glaringly apparent to the rest of the family, who are often waiting puzzled in the car.

• 7

  Consult a doctor. If you suspect your child has OCD, take him to the doctor for an evaluation.